He’s the source of constant double teams with opponents daring Griffin’s teammates to make plays.

And that’s the issue for the Pistons as trade rumors start heating up Saturday, the day that many free agents signed in the offseason become eligible for trades.

There is no one close to Griffin on the roster.

“You probably need a couple of folks like that, in my opinion,” Pistons owner Tom Gores said after Griffin’s acquisition last season. “We didn’t go searching with that philosophy, but it did come to us and we just couldn’t not afford to look at a guy like Blake, who can really change your franchise. We weren’t deliberate about (finding a star) because we’re building the team one by one, but you see it in the league the elite teams have a few Blakes.”

Is there surprise potential?

During an interview with the Free Press earlier this month, Milwaukee Bucks general manager Jon Horst predicted an active trade season.

“The trade deadline is one or two things,” Horst explained. “You’re trying position yourself for the end of the season or for the next season. People perceive an opportunity to win a championship this year in the Eastern Conference because of LeBron (James joining the Lakers in the West) and Houston and Golden State showing some signs of weakness.

“If you think they’re weak, you’re probably underestimating how great they’ve been, but you perceive an opportunity in both conferences.”

Two days later, Horst pulled the trigger with an eye toward both goals – picking up guard George Hill for this season. Hill’s contract is only partially guaranteed for next season, so it also creates financially flexibility.